Cowans Gap State Park Campground offers outdoor recreation options in Pennsylvania's mountain terrain. The area sits within the Tuscarora State Forest at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, surrounded by ridges rising to 2,000 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate rainfall throughout camping season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Seven Points Campground at Raystown Lake connects directly to the Allegrippis Trail system. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," notes one visitor who appreciates the technical terrain.
Water activities beyond swimming: Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA provides creek access for tubing and kayaking. "You can get a site along the creek where you can tube or kayak (they rent them out here)!" explains a camper. The facility offers equipment rentals for those without their own gear.
Historical exploration: Sites within 30 minutes of Fort Loudon provide access to significant landmarks. "Close to Antitiem battlefield, vineyards, antiques or even DC (1 hour)," reports one visitor, noting the diverse day trip options available from local campgrounds.
What campers like
Creek-side camping sites: Twin Bridge Campground features waterfront sites along a small stream. "We had Site C, which was right on the stream. This was a very nice site and we had more space between us than others had," explains one visitor, highlighting the prime locations that fill up quickly.
Seasonal programming: Fall camping offers special experiences. "At Halloween they have a great haunted house," reports a KOA visitor. Another camper at Cunningham Falls State Park mentions, "We brought the grandkids out for a few days of relaxing and unwinding in the woods. The 3-yo had no issues on the trails."
Lake access without crowds: "Rocky Gap is best earlier and later in the year. It's less crowded. The campground beach is fun. There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake," explains a visitor who appreciates the off-season experience when glamping close to Fort Loudon, Pennsylvania.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the Fort Loudon area have minimal connectivity. "Full moon walks add special touches to the glamping experience, though visitors should note there's virtually no cell service—creating a truly unplugged luxury retreat in the Pennsylvania mountains."
Varied terrain impacts site quality: At Rocky Gap State Park Campground, "The campgrounds are very nice, two lakes with crystal clear water, camp store, the camp sites are spread out but still a lot of people, hence a lot of noise." Site selection matters significantly for privacy and comfort.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences temperature swings between day and night, especially in spring and fall. Pack layers for warmth, as temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees after sunset, even during premium glamping seasons from May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Accommodations with dedicated play areas reduce setup hassle. "Park friendly (spaces 1-30, Campground A), nice shower houses with heat, well laid out beach, beach house, watercraft rentals, friendly park rangers & staff, and in the center of trails galore!"
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing platforms provide learning experiences. One campground features "a little viewing area/dock with information on the bald eagles and osprey that live there," offering natural science education for children.
Swimming options: Jellystone Park in Williamsport provides extensive water features. "Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had a ice-cream / quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly," notes a visitor who appreciated the family-focused amenities.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup logistics: Many glamping locations near Fort Loudon offer partial hookups. "Ridge camp is the furthest away from the marina and the public swimming area. However it's the closest to the Allegrippis Trail system and from the entrance of the camp loop there is a trail head!" This matters for RV campers planning activities.
Leveling considerations: "We pulled into Ridge Camp (RCAM on Recreation.gov) and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and (according to our LevelMatePRO app) it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us." Preparation for uneven terrain helps ensure a comfortable glamping experience.
